I’m 80 years old and I believe, wholeheartedly, that the Lord puts us here for a purpose.

As a child, I was encouraged to find simple ways of helping others in my community – like passing along clothes or donating food. When I learned about poverty in countries overseas, I realised that this was important, too. And that we should support families overseas, just as we help those around us, at home.

It’s something that has stayed with me my whole life, because it’s been in my heart from the very start.

I’m trained in early childhood teaching and began working when I was just on twenty. Ever since, I’ve worked with young children and families. It’s made me very aware of the needs of those who are struggling – whether it be financially, or in other areas – and I think that’s why I’m so passionate about doing what I can to help. Because my experience has taught me that you don’t need to be overly wealthy in order to do so.

As one of its founding members, I’m very involved in the work of Berry Baptist Church. One of the programs I’ve taken on in recent years supports drought-affected communities in our state.

Even with good rains, it will take an extended period for some of these communities to get back on their feet and get their work going again. So, last year, I drove the 900 kilometres to Narrabri to connect with some families there and find out what we could do to help support them.

It’s simply about seeing the needs of others and acting. It’s about doing what you can.

In the same way, I don’t need to be living overseas to support people in those areas. I just need to see the need and do what I can. That’s why, over the years, I have chosen to support Baptist World Aid, as I could afford to. No matter our income, I believe we can make a big difference… because even little bits – now and again – add up!  And I’m confident that each donation has made an impact, because Baptist World Aid knows (better than I!) where the greatest needs are where my donations are best used.

I have been so blessed in so many ways. And when I look at what I have, I think, “Lord, I am so grateful. I just want to share it”. That’s why I’ve chosen to leave a gift in my Will to Baptist World Aid – to share with others the blessings I’ve been given.

Yes, I want my family to be looked after, but I want the same for other families, too. I want to make sure that the work I have been so passionate about, for so long, continues. And I want my two girls – who do not know the Lord – to come to understand my faith and why this was so important to me.

I pray now that they will see my life as an example… because it’s like a footprint, isn’t it?

We each walk through life and leave a footprint – an impression of how a life lived has touched those around it, both near and far. Something for others to hold on to, and learn from, when we’re gone.

What will your footprint be?

I know it’s a personal decision, but can I encourage you to consider leaving a gift in your will to Baptist World Aid, as I have done? It’s another simple thing we can do to respond to the need in our world… and it will make lasting change for generations to come.

For more information, email [email protected], call 1300 789 991, or fill out the form on our Gifts in Will page.